Christian IV 1629 - 1698

Editor: Here we have an engraving, dating from sometime between 1629 and 1698, of Christian IV of Denmark, made by Simon de Pas. It has such a serious tone, with that elaborate collar framing his face. What symbolic meaning do you find in this portrait? Curator: Well, immediately I notice the text framing the image – "Pietas Regna," suggesting a kingdom ruled by piety. That sets the stage. Beyond a likeness, this engraving becomes a powerful assertion of legitimate rule during a time of significant upheaval in Europe. Do you notice how Christian IV is presented not merely as a man, but as an emblem? Editor: I do now! It’s like he’s more idea than person. How did the cultural memory of kingship inform an image like this? Curator: Think about it this way: portraits of rulers were less about individual personality and more about projecting the virtues associated with leadership – wisdom, strength, piety. The engraver is playing with these very established visual cues to communicate power. The armour speaks to military might, and that lace collar almost acts as a halo, linking to divinity and moral authority. How does this make you rethink portraits more generally? Editor: I hadn't considered how much messaging was packed into what I previously saw as a straightforward historical likeness. The image feels much more active and deliberate now. Curator: Precisely! By decoding these symbols, we begin to understand the deep connections between images, power, and cultural memory.